If you are considering enrolling your student in a STAAR prep course, Varsity Tutors offers private STAAR classes that may help them improve their study skills. The STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) exams are taken by all students grades 3-12 to determine what they are learning and whether they are ready for the academic rigors of the next grade level. Standardized tests can feel daunting, so a STAAR class can help build your student's confidence as exam day approaches!
One of the first things discussed in a typical STAAR course is the structure and content of the exams your student is preparing for. If you aren't sure what they should go over during STAAR prep class sessions, the chart below provides a breakdown of the STAAR schedule by grade level:
STAAR Test | Grade Level or Course |
Reading | Grades 3-8 |
Math | Grades 3-8 |
Writing | Grades 4 and 7 |
Science | Grades 5 and 8 |
Social Studies | Grade 8 |
EOC (end of course) | Algebra I, US History, Biology, English I, English II |
The beauty of private STAAR prep classes is that they are flexible enough to adapt to any student's needs. For instance, let's say that your student is in Grade 8. They have four STAAR tests on their plate this year: Reading, Math, Science, and Social Studies. A typical STAAR course might spend equal time on all four subjects, but most students are stronger in one or more than the others. Spending an equal amount of time on everything isn't the optimal solution in most cases.
Let's add that your student excels in reading comprehension, so you're not really worried about the Reading STAAR. Strong reading comprehension skills also make Social Studies easier, so that one is probably fine too. It looks like this hypothetical student might be best served by concentrating on the Math and Science STAAR exams, with maybe a little bit of review for the other two, during their STAAR courses. Of course, sessions could also focus on Reading and Social Studies in the opposite scenario.
Once you know which exams your student should concentrate on, STAAR prep courses might go over the specific contents of those tests. Returning to the example above, the following graphic breaks down the concepts on the Grade 8 Math STAAR exam:
STAAR Grade 8 Math Topics
- Numerical Representations and Relationships
- Computations and Algebraic Relationships
- Geometry and Measurement
- Data Analysis and Personal Financial Literacy
Again, working with a private instructor allows students to concentrate on any subject. If your student has strong algebraic skills but has a harder time with geometry, their instructor might provide extra geometry practice problems for more experience. A private instructor may also be able to incorporate your student's interests to make studying more engaging. For example, financial literacy can seem dry as a standalone topic, but framing it as saving for a video game may make it more interesting.
We also try to make STAAR test prep as convenient as possible. Our Live Learning Platform allows your student to meet with their instructor online, taking the hassle out of private STAAR prep courses. We also do our best to match every student with an instructor who meets your scheduling needs. After all, no kid should have to compromise sports, hobbies, or even relaxation time just to study for a test.
If you're ready to learn more about our STAAR classes, contact Varsity Tutors today for more information. Educational Directors are currently standing by to address any questions you have!

Ali: Fall River STAAR course instructor
...helping students succeed through a variety of careers, including serving as an AmeriCorps member for City Year, supervising elementary tutors and mentors, and am currently working as a high school guidance counselor. I have a BA degree in Psychology from The Ohio State University and a MA degree in School Counseling from Northern Kentucky University....
Education & Certification
- Ohio State University-Main Campus - Bachelors, Psychology
- Northern Kentucky University - Masters, School Counseling
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT
- STAAR EOC
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +129 subjects

Alexa: Fall River STAAR course instructor
...with students of all ages for several years. I take a personal approach with each student, learning their strengths, weaknesses, and ways of learning. I am a creative instructor and use visuals, verbal cues, and games to assist students in their learning. I am a passionate instructor and child care professional striving to assist as...
Education & Certification
- Northern Rhode Island Collaborative - Certificate, Teacher Assistant
- Community College of Rhode Island - Associate in Arts, Music Theory and Composition
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- FCAT 2.0
- +82 subjects

John: Fall River STAAR course instructor
...Academy of Dramatic Arts in NYC in 2008, the oldest English speaking acting conservatory in the world. I graduated Summa from University of St Thomas with a BA in English, and just wrapped up a MS in Data Science from Northwestern. I'm a huge Red Sox fan and love watching detective shows when I have...
Education & Certification
- American Academy of Dramatic Arts - Associates, Acting
- University of St. Thomas - Bachelor of Fine Arts, English/Drama
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- ACT
- HSPT
- CLEP
- +110 subjects

Connor: Fall River STAAR course instructor
...excelled in undergraduate coursework pertaining to these subjects and have prior experience in assisting pre-professional (pre-medical and pre-nursing) students looking to succeed in their required general science classes. My tutoring methodology is dependent on the establishment of a strong conceptual framework, and subsequent application of theory through practice problems (the best way to master any...
Education & Certification
- Saint Louis University-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- HSPT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- SSAT
- +43 subjects

Janet: Fall River STAAR course instructor
...with students of all ages. With a background in Special Education and tutoring for test prep (GED, ACT, SAT), I have a heart for those who find it difficult to succeed in the classroom. It is my passion to encourage students and help them learn strategies to succeed in their education and in life.... All students have the ability to learn, so the challenge, as a teacher or tutor, is to understand how the student learns best. Utilizing that learning style, I desire to encourage the student and provide opportunities for the student to succeed. Beyond the current learning style, I believe it is important to equip the student with skills to learn in any classroom environment which they may encounter. Critical thinking skills are equally important to prepare the student for both classroom success and life.
Education & Certification
- Moody Bible Institue - Bachelors, International Mnistries
- Lamar University - Masters, School Counseling
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- ACT
- PSAT
- STAAR EOC
- +64 subjects

Sahar: Fall River STAAR course instructor
...wide variety of subjects, but am particularly passionate about the sciences and standardized tests (both college admission and MCAT). I have been a student seeking help for classes before, and I speak from personal experience when I say that nothing feels better than finally understanding a subject with the help of tutor. I believe that...
Education & Certification
- Emory University - Current Undergrad Student, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT
- WISC IV
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- +103 subjects

Brittany: Fall River STAAR course instructor
...would be enhanced by my positive attitude, maturity and adaptability. Highly motivated and flexible, I learn quickly and commit myself to any task I take on.. You will find me to be a very creative and enthusiastic person with the patience and care to build an innovative workplace. I am eager to grow in my...
Education & Certification
- University of Central Arkansas - Bachelors, Philosophy
- Brock University - Masters, Philosophy/ Comparative Literature
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SSAT
- TOEFL
- STAAR EOC
- +51 subjects

Amanda: Fall River STAAR course instructor
...students discover their true potential for success, regardless of background or barriers, has always been a deep-seated passion of mine. I, myself, a first generation college student hailing from a low income family, want to emphasize how important it is to have a growth mindset and to work hard to achieve the goals that are...
Education & Certification
- San Jose State University - Bachelor of Fine Arts, Dance
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- CAHSEE
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- Middle School Math
- +25 subjects

Nicole : Fall River STAAR course instructor
...deaf and hard of hearing from grades 1 up to 12. Working with this demographic has allowed me to focus on literacy development regardless of hearing status as I work to accommodate students within the Common Core. My strongest skill set lies in literacy and I enjoy teaching history (especially American!). While I am new...
Education & Certification
- Northeastern University - Bachelors, American Sign Language and English Interpreting, History
- Teachers College at Columbia University - Masters in Education, Education - Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- ISEE
- HSPT
- College English
- +26 subjects

Ngozi: Fall River STAAR course instructor
...college students down to middle school students and I am comfortable in teaching all grade levels! A little look into my life:Along with being a tutor, I am also an Olympian and 2 time African Games medalist in the area of track and field, a female vocalist/recording artist along with many other things that keep...
Education & Certification
- University of Houston - Bachelors, Health
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- English Grammar and Syntax
- College Essays
- +8 subjects

Andy: Fall River STAAR course instructor
...on STEM education and creating well-rounded students for today's technology centered world. Our lesson plans were both hands-on and thoroughly engaging while ensuring efficacy in education. I firmly believe that every student has the potential for "math literacy"; with a little help, anyone can be a math-confident person. I am most comfortable teaching math subjects...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Dallas - Bachelors, Interdisciplinary Studies
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- PSAT
- SSAT
- +52 subjects

Nolan: Fall River STAAR course instructor
...a wide variety of subjects including math, Spanish, ESL, and test prep. I really enjoy tutoring geometry and algebra or SAT prep. My tutoring strengths include finding multiple ways to explain things for my students and giving real value to the learning process so that information can be retained. Outside of the academic world, I...
Education & Certification
- Ursinus College - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- PSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- +40 subjects

Elissa: Fall River STAAR course instructor
...already know and apply that knowledge to new learning. When there are gaps in the background knowledge, I help to fill those in. If you need to catch up on a class you're behind in, learn strategies for test-taking, or just have somebody else explain a concept you're not getting, I can help!
Education & Certification
- Angelo State University - Bachelors, Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT
- STAAR EOC
- PSAT
- +27 subjects

Malcolm: Fall River STAAR course instructor
...science, writing, and test preparation. I have a strong background in tutoring over many years, and I am very comfortable working with many different kinds of students. My goal is not only to ensure success in the classroom today but to equip my students with lifelong skills that will help them to be successful in...
Education & Certification
- Rice University - Bachelor in Arts, Biochemistry and Cell Biology
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT
- SSAT
- ISEE
- +42 subjects

Tomas: Fall River STAAR course instructor
...and academic specialist, which has allowed me to look at education from a different lens and therefore given me a comprehensive look at curriculum and instruction. I am currently completing my principal certification and hope to pursue this goal in the near future. The rest of my time is spent with my wife and two...
Education & Certification
- Brandeis University - Bachelors, Political Science & History
- Southern Methodist University - Masters, Bilingual Education
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- Languages
- Writing
- +16 subjects

Tom: Fall River STAAR course instructor
...I also tutor standardized test taking. One of my strengths as a tutor is to take difficult subjects or concepts and make them easier to understand. I am completely dedicated to helping students get better. I like for teaching and learning to be fun, because students learn more if they are enjoying what they are...
Education & Certification
- Ohio University-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Interpersonal Commmunication/Business
- University of Phoenix-Dallas Campus - Master of Science, Business Administration/Marketing
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- GED
- High School Geography
- +30 subjects

Kirsten: Fall River STAAR course instructor
...6 years has been extremely gratifying. Managing Mathnasium of Ladera Ranch and working as Director of Tutoring Club Capitola has allowed for excellent professional experience running an educational institute while working closely with students of all ages. My positive outlook, vibrant energy, and up-beat outgoing personality provide the perfect medium for clear and precise communication....
Education & Certification
- University of California-Santa Barbara - Bachelors, Environmental Science
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT
- STAAR Grades 3-8
- ACT
- +24 subjects

Caroline: Fall River STAAR course instructor
...subjects but my favorites are reading and writing based- phonics, English literature, and reading comprehension. Reading has been a favorite hobby of mine since elementary school and I love to share that passion with others. Outside of teaching and tutoring, travel is one of my favorite pastimes. I have spent time studying and traveling abroad,...
Education & Certification
- University of Virginia-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, English Literature
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- Essay Editing
- Elementary Math
- Comparative Literature
- +13 subjects

Nicole: Fall River STAAR course instructor
...learn best when they are involved and responsible for their education. Traditional methods do not always work. I incorporate fun and active activities to help the children grasp the concept. Outside of an academic setting I enjoy reading all types of books, outdoor activities, fishing, and boating. I overall have a very easy going personality...
Education & Certification
- Miami Dade College - Bachelor of Science, Exceptional Student Education
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- FCAT 2.0
- SSAT
- Reading
- +14 subjects
Education & Certification
- Baylor University - Bachelor in Business Administration, Management Information Systems
Subject Expertise
- STAAR
- SAT
- UK A Level
- ACT
- +66 subjects